Carbo loading - Baked Ziti

This weekend I am scheduled to “compete” by walking in a half marathon. Not as impressive as running, but still I consider it not too shabby for a women of my age and lazy tendencies. This year my sister is joining me for the semi annual tradition. To best prepare us for this challenge, I need to make a nice carb-filled meal to fuel us tor the day. The Baked Ziti recipe I use (originally from the back of a box) can be easily doubled for company and it also freezes nicely. Wish me luck at the race, I have a feeling my old butt is going to need it this year.

Baked Ziti

3 cups Ziti, uncooked
¾ lb ground beef
3 cups (or 28 oz jar) spaghetti sauce
1 ¾ cups (15 oz) ricotta cheese
2 cups (8 oz) shredded mozzarella cheese
1 teaspoon dries basil leaves
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
Grated Parmesan cheese

Heat oven to 350 degrees. Cook pasta for 8 minutes; drain. Meanwhile in a large skillet over medium heat, brown meat until cooked; drain. Stir in spaghetti sauce; simmer for 10 minutes. In a small bowl, stir together ricotta cheese, 1 cup mozzarella cheese and seasonings; set aside. Toss pasta with meat sauce. In a 13x9 baking dish, spoon one half pasta mixture, spread cheese mixture over top. Layer with remaining pasta; sprinkle with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Cover with foil and bake 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake 5 more minutes.